Air Quality Warning: Wildfire smoke creates hazy conditions in Ottawa

A smoky haze lingering over Ottawa and Gatineau on Saturday evening. Environment Canada has issued an air quality warning, saying smoke from forest fires in Quebec will linger over the region. (Westin Camera)

Smoke from wildfires burning in Quebec has drifted into the Ottawa area, creating hazy conditions.

Environment Canada has issued a yellow warning – air quality for Ottawa, Gatineau and sections of eastern Ontario and western Quebec, warning wildfire smoke will cause poor air quality and reduced visibility.

“Smoke from forest fires in Quebec will continue to affect the region through the evening,” the weather agency said.

“Conditions are expected to improve by Sunday morning. As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.”

At 6 p.m., the weather conditions were listed as “haze” at the Ottawa Airport.

The air quality was listed at 5-moderate risk Saturday evening. The Air Quality Health Index shows the air quality improving to 3-low risk on Sunday.

The Air Quality Health Index says if the rating is between 4-6, members of the at risk population should “consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous activities outdoors if you are experiencing symptoms.”

The yellow warning - air quality is in effect for Ottawa, Renfrew, Calabogie, Arnprior, Smiths Falls, Perth and parts of Lanark County.

Quebec’s forest fire fighting agency (SOPFEU) is monitoring 182 active fires in northern Quebec and six in the southern “intensive protection zone.”

An open fire ban is in effect for much of Quebec.

With files from CTV News Montreal’s Daniel Rowe

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